PUBLISHED ONJuly 31, 2025 10:35 AMBYYeo Shu HuiOne evening last year, former actor Andrew Seow's father asked him a question while they were watching television: "Is there something you've always wanted to do?"
"That moment really made me pause and reflect. Contributing to national security had always been at the back of my mind, but life's circumstances never quite lined up, until then," the 55-year-old told AsiaOne in an interview recently.
Andrew said his father was an auxiliary police officer (APO) in his 20s and had shared his experiences and pride in protecting others. Inspired, he decided to take the "leap of faith" and submitted his application for a position with security company Aetos.
"To my surprise, I got a call within eight hours inviting me for an interview. Things moved quickly from there and before I knew it, I was putting on the uniform. It's been more than a year now. I'm proud to be part of something bigger, protecting our country and community, and I think my dad is too," he said.
Andrew shared that his main responsibilities as an APO includes guarding and escorting persons-in-custody, conducting security searches and handling bail procedures.
As a former public figure, Andrew said he would be recognised by his colleagues, clients and members of the public occasionally.
He shared: "I'm always thankful when people remember me and take the time to say something kind. But those days in the limelight are behind me. These days, I find more meaning in the work I do as an APO, carrying out my duties with professionalism and integrity."
Andrew debuted in local showbiz in 1995 and acted in both English and Mandarin television series in Mediacorp. Some of his iconic roles include rebellious eldest son Gary Tay in local English drama Growing Up (1996 - 2001) and loyal friend Tang Tang in local Chinese drama Man At Forty (2004), for which Andrew won Best Supporting Actor in Star Awards 2004. He retired from the entertainment industry in 2007.
Reflecting on his acting career, he told us: "After 12 fulfilling years in showbiz, I felt that it was time to step away. Life took a different turn, I had to care for my parents and I needed time to reflect and reset."
He added that after stepping away from the limelight, he did some business ventures while caring for his parents. Because of his interest in art and culture, he also worked as a senior curator with Tsu Ho Gallery, which specialised in fine arts, jewellery and antiques, for a few years from 2010, before joining Aetos.
When news broke in early July that Andrew has found a new career as an APO, netizens were glad to see him again, adding that he brought back nostalgic memories for them of their time watching Growing Up and praised him for his good performance.
When asked why he decided to step back into publicity now, he said: "To be honest, I never planned to return to the spotlight. But I realised that if sharing my story can inspire even one person to take that first step towards something they've always wanted to do, then why not? I hope my journey is proof that it's never too late to chase your calling."
As to whether he has considered returning to acting, Andrew shared: "I'm happy taking the audience seat these days. The current generation of actors and actresses are incredibly talented, and I enjoy watching them shine. For now, I find just as much satisfaction appreciating the craft from a different perspective, as a viewer and supporter."
In a 2023 interview with actor Steven David Lim, who plays Gary's younger brother David in Growing Up, he told AsiaOne about some tension between him and an unnamed actor on the set of the series. Former actress-host Jamie Yeo, who played youngest sister Tammy, was involved as well.
When asked about this, Andrew said: "That was quite a long time ago, and I honestly don't have any recollection of who or what the situation was referring to. Working on set back then, we were all young and still learning the ropes. If anything was misunderstood, I hope it's all water under the bridge by now."
Although Andrew is no longer in the spotlight, he is still able to apply the skills he had learnt as an actor into his current career as an APO.
"Coming from an acting background, I've learnt to adapt quickly, stay composed under pressure, and connect with people from all walks of life. Long filming hours also prepared me well for shift work. More importantly, learning to read situations, communicate clearly and stay calm even under pressure — these skills have been valuable and continued to help me in my role every day," he said.
During his days off, Andrew, who is single, values his personal time.
"I enjoy the peace that comes with being in my own space. On my off days, I like to do a bit of gardening, care for my pets and spend time in nature. With the structure and responsibilities that come with being an APO, having the time to unwind and recharge has become something I really appreciate," he shared.
He also enjoys spending time and cooking for his parents: "They're getting on in years and I truly cherish each day I have with them."
Andrew's specialty is making curry chicken from scratch, and he said seeing how much his parents enjoyed it "makes all the effort worthwhile".
"It's these little everyday moments that remind me how much joy can be found in the simple things," he added.
Life took different turns for Andrew, where he got to experience careers as an actor, curator and APO, and it all boiled down to one thing — chasing his aspirations.
Reflecting on his position as an APO, he shared: "This job has given me the chance to show others that it's never too late to pursue your passion. I've also come to realise that people see me not for who I was on screen, but for who I am today, someone who is playing my part to safeguard our country and communities.
"On the ground, I've encountered people in distress, some at their lowest points. It's in those quiet moments, where you're able to step in and make a difference, that reminds me why the work I do matters."
He hoped those who are thinking of a mid-career switch would consider following their heart.
"It's never too late to go after your dreams. So long as it's something you believe in, give it your all. I made a bold move last year, and it's been one of the best and most fulfilling decisions I've ever made. Keep learning, stay curious and don't be afraid to follow your passion," Andrew said.
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